The Wall: The real costs of a barrier between the United States and Mexico
BrookingsSep 15, 2017
The Facts
The White House on Thurs. authorized completion of part of the previously Trump-authorized US-Mexico border wall. The location is near Yuma, Arizona, where large openings make it one of the busiest places for illegal crossings.
Authorities have logged over 235k migrant encounters in that area since Oct. 1, 2021.
The Spin
Establishment-critical narrative
The costs of closing the gaps in the border wall outweigh the benefits. Drugs and undocumented migrants will find their way across the border no matter what physical barriers are built, and the economic and ecological costs are not worth whatever optics of security the wall may provide.
Pro-establishment narrative
A solid and functioning border wall is a necessary part of protecting American security. Not only does it protect US citizens by keeping drugs and dangerous people out, but it also protects vulnerable migrants from attempting dangerous crossings and prevents human trafficking. Closing the gaps in the border wall is simply a necessity.
